AAFA criticises latest US tariff announcement
12/07/2018
A new list of products, released on July 10, included a range of textile, accessory and travel goods, which AAFA said will “directly impact” the US apparel and footwear industry and its retail partners.
Tariffs on these products could take effect in September after public consultations end, according to the US Trade Representative’s office.
In response, Rick Helfenbein, president and CEO of AAFA, said: “This move by the Trump administration, though expected, will not do anything to help American workers, American consumers, or American businesses. By including items such as handbags, hats, and textiles on this additional list of products, the administration has shown that it is not concerned about targeting the American public with its ‘Trump Tax.’ This will result in inflationary costs throughout the supply chain, ultimately paid for by American consumers.”
He added: “The administration backed us into the corner with several months’ worth of tariffs – if this continues, it has the potential to severely impact our apparel, accessory, and footwear community. As an industry, we are already highly taxed and regulated.”
Mr Helfenbein urged the US administration to “refocus on resolving the underlying issue with China, rather than finding new and creative ways to tax Americans.”
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